Whistler bid to host the 1968 Olympics, the 1972 Olympics and the 1976 Olympics. This alpine village finally struck gold with the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Though Whistler’s permanent population is about 10,000, it swells to over 40,000 during peak months in winter.

Whistler was once known as Alta Lake, which is one of several lakes surrounding the village. In 1965, its name was changed to acknowledge the unique whistling sound made by the western hoary marmots, large ground squirrels that live on the mountain.

Thrills abound in Whistler, starting with the incredible PEAK 2 PEAK, a breathtaking 4.4 kilometre (2.7 mile) journey between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The gondola broke world records for the longest unsupported span, the highest lift of its kind and the longest continuous lift system on the planet.

At the Whistler Sliding Centre, the public can try bobsledding or skeleton, and reach speeds on the track of 125 kilometres per hour (78 miles per hour) and 100 kilometres per hour (62 miles per hour), respectively.

It’s tempting to let legend speak for Whistler, the renowned ski resort that became even more famous as the site of the alpine and Nordic venues for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. But the rumours about this mountain town are so incredible, they may seem too good to be true. Let it be known: Whistler is every bit as good as you’ve heard.

A mere two-hour drive from Vancouver along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99), Whistler blends the charm of an alpine village with the amenities of the most sophisticated urban centre.

On the mountain, 3,307 hectares (8,171 acres) of terrain beckons skiers and snowboarders between November and May. Or, try snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dogsledding, ziplining or perhaps a sleigh ride, complete with hot chocolate.

In the summer, hundreds of kilometres of bike trails (including lift-serviced ones) will entertain any level of cyclist, while its hiking trails are perfect for picnickers. Whistler’s golf courses will challenge even the lowest handicaps, while its rivers and lakes are perfect to explore with a paddle in hand. For adventure that is decidedly untamed, you’ll find an abundance of wildlife here — ideal for viewing. From a respectable vantage point, of course.

Can’t decide? Sit back on a sunny patio, winter or summer, to people-watch, and let the magic of Whistler come to you.